Let's Give 'Racist' A Rest

March 06, 1985|The Morning Call

Chrysler Chairman Lee Iacocca had some strong words for the Japanese and their export policy in his speech to the House Democratic Caucus the other day. Rep. Robert Matsui, a third-generation Japanese-American from California, didn't like what Mr. Iacocca had to say about the land of his ancestors. He called the remarks "racist." The passage of the speech which drew fire are contained in words that Mr. Iacocca would like President Reagan to use in speaking to Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone about his country's export of goods to the United States.

Herewith are the words that offended Rep. Matsui:

"How about giving them a strategy like this (Mr. President): 'Look, Mr. Nakasone, I'm $37 billion a year in the hole to you, and that's just too big a ripoff, even for a friend. You think I've got a problem, but I've got news for you, friend: You've got a problem. It's $37 billion and it's growing and that won't fly.

" 'I just set a goal for my team on the budget deficit. I want $50 billion out and I'm giving you one for your team: $10 billion out next year, and then we'll set a plan for the second and third year. Tell me how you get there. Some more beef and oranges and telecommunications from our side, and a few less cars or video recorders from your side. Your call. If you can't work it out, I'll have a few suggestions for you. Do it, or the Congress will do it for both of us. Sayonara.' "

Tough talk from a tough talker, yes. But "racist," baloney. Even Mr. Iacocca's description of Japan's "taking over (our) backyard" is merely harsh marketplace rhetoric, not the insidious racially motivated talk that Rep. Matsui would have us believe.

The difference between Lee Iacocca's shoot-from-the-hip import-export advice and "racist" invective is as big as the difference between a Chrysler New Yorker and a Honda Civic.